If cutting your carbon emissions and reducing your impact on the environment is important to you, then consider leasing an electric car.
The number of models on the market is growing with big motoring giants including Mercedes Benz, Jaguar and BMW all introducing models.As well as the top end manufacturers, more budget friendly car makers are also launching their own electric vehicles, including Renault and Kia.
And as the number of choices improves, so does the driving range and battery life of the vehicles, with some cars reaching almost 300 miles.
If an electric car is for you, where do you start? Take a look at LeaseCar.uk’s guide to the best electric cars.
Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 is the first truly affordable model by the American manufacturer with a remarkable maximum range of over 300 miles.
Three versions are available. The Standard Range Plus is capable of 258 miles reaching 0 – 60mph in just 5.3 seconds. The Long Range AWD and Performance versions have 348 and 329 miles and go from 0 – 60mph in 4.5 and 3.2 seconds respectively.
Inside the car is minimalist with the interior focused around a 15-inch central touchscreen. There’s just a handful of buttons and switches for music and windows with everything else controlled by the touch screen.
The charging inlet is found on the rear near-side flank built into the leading section of the rear light cluster. Charging can take from as little as 20 minutes up to 20 hours.
Nissan Leaf
The Nissan Leaf is more impressive than ever with a range of up to 239 miles in the e+ version and a much-improved performance.
Acceleration is smooth with the standard Leaf going from 0 – 62mph in 7.9 seconds with the e+ taking just 6.9. Nissan has introduced an ‘e-Pedal’ which is activated by the driver allowing you to slow down and stop by easing off the accelerator.
Inside, the Leaf is sturdy and well put together with a boot large enough for a family and all their luggage.
Charging inlets can be found in what would normally be the centre of the car’s grill with charging taking between 40 minutes to 14 hours.
From £209.99 per month (ex. VAT).
Renault Zoe
The Renault Zoe is one of the least expensive electric cars around and with a range of up to 250 miles, offers good value for money.
Acceleration is reasonable, going from 0 – 62mph in 11.4 second with the R110 motor. With the upgraded R135, it takes a lower 9.5 seconds.
A touchscreen takes centre stage inside the Renault Zoe, giving a sleek interior and with a bigger boot than you’d expect for a small car, this is great option for short journeys.
The charging point can be found at the front of the car. Charging the Renault Zoe can take between 45 minutes up to 17 hours.
BMW I3
The BMW i3 is out to make a statement with its striking futuristic space age design and range of 188 miles.
The car can get from 0 – 62mph in 7.3 seconds with the i3s taking just 6.9 seconds. The accelerator works much the same way as Nissan’s e-pedal which can make journeys much more relaxing.
Inside the car is spacious with hi-tech screens replacing dials and a large digital display taking the central point.
The charging inlet is where you’d expect to find the petrol cap to the rear of the vehicle. Charging will take between 35 minutes to 11 hours.
Jaguar I-Pace
A four-wheel drive with a range of 298, the Jaguar I-Pace is a quality car and one of the first from the premium car manufacturers.
Acceleration is impressive 0 – 62mph in just 4.8 seconds with this car outstanding on twisty roads thanks to its excellent handling.
Inside the spacious car is similar to a traditional Jaguar with a conventional layout and no gimmicks – befitting for a luxury vehicle.
The charging inlet can be found on the front flank behind the passenger side front wheel with charging taking between 90 minutes up to 30 hours.
Kia E-Niro
With a range of 282 miles and a lower price point than most other electric cars, the Kia E-Niro is an impressive small SUV.
Acceleration is good – 0 – 60mph in 7.5 seconds and a top speed of 104mph. It’s a nifty zero emissions vehicle – great for driving around towns and cities and equally at home on twisty country roads.
Added to that, this is a practical five-seater car, well equipped with a roomy interior and a good size boot.
The charging point is hidden away at the front of the car with charging taking between 60 minutes and 26 hours.
Mercedes Benz EQC
The Mercedes Benz EQC is first electric car from the motoring giant, with an impressive range of around 250 miles.
Acceleration is good going from 0 to 62mph in 5.1 seconds with very little engine noise and a refined and comfortable driving.
The interior of the EQC is impressive, with a traditionally designed dashboard with a twin screen infotainment system. There’s lots of room too, both inside the car and in the boot.
The charging inlet can be found on the rear flank in front of the passenger door. The Mercedes ECQ can take between 90 minutes up to 31 hours to charge.